Statement, April 21st, 2020
We regret to advise you that Mariposa Folk Festival 2020 has been cancelled due to the Coronavirus.
During the past many weeks, we had been in regular communication with public health and other authorities, the festival community, artist managers, core organizing volunteers and members of the production team, and determined that cancellation is the only appropriate course of action.
We had planned to celebrate our 60th anniversary this year with one of the strongest lineups assembled in decades. It included a rare talent and true original loved and cherished by fans, John Prine, who sadly passed away due to COVID-19 on April 7th. Also on the bill were the iconic Mavis Staples, highly acclaimed Serena Ryder, Mandolin Orange, and dozens of other luminaries on the Canadian, North American and international folk music scenes.
Our top priority has always been the health and safety of the audience, artists, volunteers and other supporters. Even though the festival is still 2 ½ months away, we felt that this announcement should be made as early as possible to allow interested parties and ticketholders maximum time to plan accordingly.
At its April 20th meeting, the City of Orillia Emergency Management Committee extended the restriction against such public gatherings within the municipality, and it now encompasses the weekend of Mariposa Folk Festival.
Mariposa is offering ticket purchasers a full refund, a deferral for 2021 festival tickets, or the option of donating ticket purchases back to the festival, a non-profit organization and a registered charity. Ticketholders will be provided information for choosing their preferred option. Donations can also be made via Canada Helps.
As disappointing as it is to have to skip Mariposa Folk Festival this summer, especially in view of the incredible lineup and the record-setting early ticket sales, we have already started planning for a fantastic return on July 9-11, 2021. Please put it in your calendar.
Thank you for your amazing support of Mariposa Folk Festival. We look forward to a wonderful reunion next year when we will all celebrate amazing music and folk culture together.
